Biofertilizers- Towards Sustainable Agriculture Development
Garcha S *
Department of Microbiology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-14101, India.
Kaur N
Department of Microbiology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-14101, India.
Brar JK.
Department of Microbiology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-14101, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
By 2050, there will be approximately 10 billion people on the planet, therefore finding greener methods to produce food will be crucial. A significant greener method involves the use of beneficial bacteria known as plant growth-promoting microorganisms. These microscopic organisms can increase crop yields, strengthen the soil and foster healthier plant growth. Beneficial microbes include bacteria, fungi, algae. They are eco-friendly and enhance nutrient absorption by the plants. These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In addition, some species of biofertilizers produce plant growth hormones. The opinion article outlines the advantages and important biofertilizers strains which are used commercially.
Keywords: Biofertilizers, nitrogen fixers, nutrient solubilizers, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria, rhizobium, azotobacter